You’re right, I think. Haidt’s whole thing is that “conservative” and “liberal” (and “Christian” and “atheist,” etc) are manifestations of people’s broader moral dispositions towards authority, purity, freedom.. and some others. I don’t fully agree with his precise framework but it’s as good first crack at it.

[Sorry for those corny asterisks around the links. Evidently my style sheet needs tweaking.]

Those studying neurotheology should look into that possible connection, if they haven’t already. A wise man told me just yesterday that nothing is original, so I’ll assume this idea isn’t either.

Still, it’d be interesting to read about the similarities, especially since it’s so often the case that the right are religious and the left isn’t. I don’t believe that is coincidence.

I’ve never found a better explanation as to why I can’t even understand many right-leaning people, and why they can’t understand me. It’s because reason has nothing to do with it. Therefore, when I get frustrated with conservatives, I try to remember that they’re just suffering from a chemical imbalance and can’t help themselves ;) Makes the situation more tolerable for me.